Best Circular Saws for Homeowners (2025): Top Picks for DIY Cuts
A circular saw is one of the most useful power tools a homeowner can own. From framing a new deck to ripping plywood for a workbench, a good circular saw handles nearly any straight-cut task you throw at it. Whether you prefer the freedom of a cordless model or the sustained power of a corded saw, this guide covers the best options in 2025.
Quick Picks
| Product | Best For | Price | |---|---|---| | DEWALT DCS391B | Best cordless overall | ~$109 | | Makita 5007MGA | Best corded | ~$159 | | Skil 5280-01 | Best budget corded | ~$59 | | Ridgid R3204 | Best value cordless | ~$89 | | Milwaukee 2730-20 | Best compact cordless | ~$119 |
1. DEWALT DCS391B — Best Cordless Overall
The DEWALT DCS391B is a 20V MAX 6-1/2 inch cordless circular saw that is the go-to choice for homeowners wanting portability and performance. It delivers 460 MWO of cutting power with a 6-1/2 inch blade, making 2x4 crosscuts and plywood rips feel effortless. The magnesium upper and lower guards keep weight down while maintaining durability. Note: this is a bare tool — pair it with a 20V MAX battery and charger if you do not already own them.
Key Specs
- Blade Size: 6-1/2 inches
- Power: 20V MAX (battery not included)
- Max RPM: 5,250 RPM
- Bevel Capacity: 0-50 degrees
- Weight: 8.8 lbs (with battery)
Pros
- Excellent cordless cutting power
- Lightweight magnesium guards
- Compatible with DEWALT 20V MAX ecosystem
- Smooth bevel adjustments up to 50 degrees
Cons
- Battery sold separately (bare tool only)
- Slightly less powerful than corded equivalents
Verdict
The DEWALT DCS391B is the top cordless pick for homeowners who want to cut anywhere without dragging an extension cord. If you already own DEWALT 20V batteries, this is an easy recommendation.
2. Makita 5007MGA — Best Corded
The Makita 5007MGA is a 15-amp, 7-1/4 inch corded circular saw widely regarded as one of the best corded circular saws ever made. The magnesium construction keeps it surprisingly light at just 10.6 lbs, while the electric brake stops the blade within seconds of releasing the trigger — a major safety advantage. The large, easy-to-read bevel gauge and smooth depth adjustment make setup quick and accurate.
Key Specs
- Blade Size: 7-1/4 inches
- Motor: 15 amps
- Max RPM: 5,007 RPM
- Bevel Capacity: 0-56 degrees
- Weight: 10.6 lbs
Pros
- Electric brake for fast blade stop
- Lightweight magnesium construction
- Precise bevel and depth adjustments
- Industry-standard reliability
Cons
- Requires power outlet or long extension cord
- Higher price than budget corded models
Verdict
The Makita 5007MGA has been a professional favorite for decades — and for good reason. For homeowners who want the most capable corded saw on this list, it is worth every dollar.
3. Skil 5280-01 — Best Budget Corded
The Skil 5280-01 is a 15-amp, 7-1/4 inch corded circular saw that delivers solid performance at an entry-level price. It features a laser guide for more accurate cuts, a spindle lock for easy blade changes, and a built-in bubble level to help keep your cuts square. For homeowners tackling occasional projects — building raised garden beds, cutting lumber for repairs, or framing a simple structure — the Skil 5280-01 handles the work without complaint.
Key Specs
- Blade Size: 7-1/4 inches
- Motor: 15 amps
- Max RPM: 5,300 RPM
- Bevel Capacity: 0-51 degrees
- Includes: Laser guide, 24T blade
Pros
- Very affordable price
- Laser guide improves cut accuracy
- Built-in bubble level
- Good power for the price
Cons
- Heavier and less refined than premium models
- Laser requires battery and can drift
Verdict
The Skil 5280-01 is the best entry point for homeowners who need a circular saw without spending premium prices. It does everything you need for occasional project work.
4. Ridgid R3204 — Best Value Cordless
The Ridgid R3204 is an 18V cordless 6-1/2 inch circular saw that offers excellent value for homeowners already in the Ridgid ecosystem. The rafter hook allows hands-free storage when climbing ladders, the built-in LED work light illuminates cut lines in dim conditions, and the bevel adjusts smoothly from 0 to 50 degrees. Ridgid lifetime service agreement adds long-term peace of mind.
Key Specs
- Blade Size: 6-1/2 inches
- Power: 18V (battery not included)
- Max RPM: 4,700 RPM
- Bevel Capacity: 0-50 degrees
- Weight: 7.8 lbs (with battery)
Pros
- Built-in LED work light
- Rafter hook for hands-free storage
- Ridgid lifetime service agreement
- Comfortable ergonomics
Cons
- Lower RPM than DEWALT equivalent
- Battery sold separately
Verdict
The Ridgid R3204 is an underrated gem in the cordless circular saw category. If you own Ridgid 18V tools, it is a natural addition to the collection — and the lifetime service agreement is hard to beat.
5. Milwaukee 2730-20 — Best Compact Cordless
The Milwaukee 2730-20 is an M18 FUEL 6-1/2 inch cordless circular saw powered by Milwaukee brushless motor technology. It delivers corded-like cutting performance from a battery, making it the most powerful cordless saw on this list. The left-blade design improves sightlines for right-handed users, and the electronic brake stops the blade in under 2 seconds. A premium choice for homeowners who do frequent, demanding project work.
Key Specs
- Blade Size: 6-1/2 inches
- Power: M18 FUEL (battery not included)
- Max RPM: 5,800 RPM
- Bevel Capacity: 0-50 degrees
- Weight: 9.0 lbs (with battery)
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers maximum cordless power
- Left-blade design improves cut visibility
- Electronic brake under 2 seconds
- Part of M18 FUEL ecosystem
Cons
- Battery sold separately
- Higher price for bare tool
Verdict
The Milwaukee 2730-20 is the most capable cordless saw on this list — it cuts like a corded saw while giving you full portability. If you are a Milwaukee M18 user, this is a top-tier upgrade.
Buyer Guide: What to Look For in a Circular Saw
Corded vs. Cordless
Corded circular saws deliver unlimited runtime and consistent power regardless of battery charge. They are ideal for long cutting sessions and heavy-duty tasks. Cordless saws offer portability and are perfect for job sites, decks, and anywhere without easy outlet access. For most homeowners, a cordless 6-1/2 inch saw handles 90% of tasks.
Blade Size: 6-1/2 in. vs. 7-1/4 in.
7-1/4 inch blades are the standard for full-size saws — they cut deeper (up to 2-1/2 in. at 90 degrees) and accept a wider range of specialty blades. 6-1/2 inch blades are lighter and more common in cordless saws. For most homeowner tasks like cutting 2x4s and 3/4 in. plywood, either blade size is sufficient.
Bevel Capacity
Most saws bevel from 0 to 45 degrees — enough for basic miter cuts and angled work. Some models go to 50 or 56 degrees, giving you more flexibility for compound cuts. Look for a smooth, positive-stop bevel adjustment with a clear angle scale.
Safety Features
An electric brake that stops the blade quickly after you release the trigger is an important safety feature — the Makita 5007MGA and Milwaukee 2730-20 both include it. Also look for a blade guard that retracts smoothly and reliably.
Frequently Asked Questions
What circular saw blade should I use for plywood? For plywood, use a 40-tooth or higher finish blade. More teeth produce cleaner cuts with less splintering. For rough framing cuts in 2x lumber, a 24-tooth blade cuts faster and is fine for construction-grade material.
Can a circular saw cut metal? Yes, with the right blade — a metal-cutting abrasive disc or carbide-tipped metal-cutting blade. However, a dedicated metal-cutting saw like an angle grinder or cold saw is usually safer and more efficient for regular metal cutting.
How do I make straight cuts with a circular saw? Use a straight edge or circular saw guide (fence) clamped to the workpiece. Set the blade depth to just below the thickness of the material — the blade should extend about 1/4 inch below the cut. Cut with the blade following the guide, keeping the saw base flat against the workpiece throughout.
Is a 15-amp circular saw enough for homeowner use? Yes — 15 amps is the most common corded motor size and handles all standard homeowner tasks with ease. You would only need more power for industrial or continuous professional use.
Bottom Line
For cordless convenience, the DEWALT DCS391B is the top choice for homeowners who value portability and already own DEWALT batteries. For pure corded performance, nothing beats the Makita 5007MGA. Budget-conscious buyers should consider the Skil 5280-01 for solid results at a fraction of the price.
Also check out our best circular saws for DIY guide for more options, and see our picks for the best cordless drills under $100 to build out your tool kit.
Shop all circular saws on Amazon
Last updated: March 2025. Prices subject to change. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.